Franchise Today

Franchise Today
  • 4.4 (18)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
Franchise Today

Welcome to Franchise Today as it celebrates its 15th year in 2024. Join host Stan Friedman, President of FRM Solutions every Wednesday at 12 PM ET / 11 AM CT as he provides full disclosure on what’s going on inside franchising today and serves up discussions with weekly guests, who will talk about best practices for scaling their businesses for sustainable growth, through sensible franchising. Franchising remains an unintentional profession. Most people don't go to school to study about how to become involved in franchising. Rather, some life event causes it to find us. Each episode of the podcast begins with a look back at how franchising found my guest of the week. This is followed by a walk through their career up to and including the present day. It could be either a franchisor, franchisee or a supplier, that provides insights into high-level support services or top-quality products to better enable the franchise community. Each podcast will wrap with a look ahead to upcoming industry events, upcoming guests or important dates on the horizon.

  1. 10 HR. AGO

    From Lab Coats to Moving Trucks: Ron Holt's Journey to 2X Franchisor Success!

    This week I am joined by Serial Entrepreneur Ron Holt, the founder of Two Maids and a Mop and Pink Zebra Moving.  Ron shares his inspiring journey from lab work, following graduating UGA with a degree in Biology, to a more inspiring, and exciting career, as a successful franchise entrepreneur. Discover how a traffic jam and a pivotal book, (The E-Myth) led Ron to rethink his career path and venture into the world of entrepreneurship and franchising. In this episode, Ron reveals the story behind the creation of Two Maids and a Mop, the challenges he faced, and how he transformed a single cleaning business into a thriving franchise, and a successful private equity exit. Ron also discusses his latest venture, Pink Zebra Moving, a unique moving company franchise, that promises to make moving a fun and happy experience. Learn about the innovative practices that set Pink Zebra apart in the moving industry, and how Ron plans to disrupt the market once again. Whether you're a franchise enthusiast or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration from a true industry disruptor.  Ron Holt, this week, on Franchise Today!

    42 min

  2. OCT 15

    In Memoriam: Ron Bender, Taken From Us, Entirely Too Soon!

    Ron Bender was one of the most affable, caring, sharing professionals in all of franchising.  We lost him this weekend and he will be sorely missed.  I interviewed Ron on Dec. 6, 2023, while he was still at Threshold Brands I re-listened to that episode yesterday, after learning of his death.  While most of the conversation was centered around Threshold, all I could really hear was the warm, affable voice of my friend Ron.   In his memory, I share that interview again today.  This time, minus the usual Franchise Today Intro, Outro and commercials.  The franchise world wil forever miss you Ron.  Rest in Peace my friend.

    26 min

  3. OCT 9

    Tropical Smoothie CEO Charles Watson: Where We're At and Where We're Heading!

    Tropical Smoothie Cafe is a leading franchise in the health-focused fast-casual market.  With nearly 1,500 locations nationwide, they offer an extensive menu of real-fruit smoothies, wraps, salads, sandwiches and flatbreads.  Charles Watson joined Tropical Smoothie Cafes in 2010 as VP of Franchise Development and was elevated to Chief Development Officer in 2015, following his personal responsibility for awarding more than 800 franchises, during his tenure.  In 2018 Charles went on to become CEO. A veteran hospitality pro, Charles has worked for several hospitality-related companies, including Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Intercontinental Hotels Group, US Franchise Systems, Inc. and Hospitality Real Estate Counselors.  He is a graduate of The Hotel School at Cornell University and also holds a Masters in Business from The Terry School of Business, at The University of Georgia.

    35 min

  4. OCT 2

    Stephanie Johnson: Marketing Leader at AlphaGraphics, PostNet & World Options

    Stephanie Johnson’s journey began with earning her Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications and gaining experience at a safety association. That path led her relocate to Denver and join AlphaGraphics, where she rapidly ascended from her initial role as Marketing Campaign Manager in 2019, to her present position, VP of Marketing for AlphaGraphics, POSTNET and World Options, All three of these brand flags flying under the umbrella of MBE Global.    AlphaGraphics operates approximately 230 franchises across the U.S. focusing on providing printing and marketing solutions for businesses, small and large. Her Marketing team is charged with increasing brand awareness and lead generation through national campaigns while improving internal communications with franchise owners. In response to COVID-19, AlphaGraphics boosted their marketing efforts with a campaign that offered $25,000 brand makeovers to small businesses, served by their franchisees. This was followed by their wildly successful “Bring Your Brand to Life” initiative, emphasizing storytelling via high-quality videos. At PostNet, the emphasis is on micro businesses and smaller print jobs, prioritizing customer relationships through campaigns like “We Love Our Customers” and “First Name Basis.” World Options the third leg of the stool, supports the logistical needs of small and medium-sized businesses with personalized shipping solutions, emphasizing exceptional customer service and flexible carrier options. Stephanie Johnson, VP of Marketing for all three brands, joins us this week to share more about it all, right here on Franchise Today.

    34 min

  5. SEP 25

    The Franchise Leaders Forum Interviews Stan Friedman and We Simulcast it Here!

    This week I present a very special edition of Franchise Today, featuring excerpts of me being interviewed by Tracy Panase and Shannon Wilburn, on their brand new podcast, The Franchise Leaders Forum. With permission from Tracy and Shannon, we are simulcasting that interview, right here on Franchise Today.  So, listen as we flip the script and I become the subject of the  interview, as opposed to being the interviewer.       While this simulcast introduces you to Tracy and Shannon and The Franchise Leaders Forum, it also gives you a chance to learn a bit more about my storied career, which started in broadcast and led to some 36 subsequent years in franchising.  I hope you enjoy this.  I had a ton of fun doing it!

    36 min

  6. SEP 18

    Sean Bock: From Tax Law to Franchise Development... A Storied Career!

    Welcome to another exciting episode of Franchise Today featuring Sean Bach, a seasoned franchise professional with a unique journey through the industry. From his early exposure to franchising through his father's association with the founder of Pizza Hut, to his pivotal roles at Cold Stone Creamery, Drybar, and now Pure Glow, Sean's story is one of constant learning and evolution. In this episode, Sean shares his transition from tax law to a career in franchise leadership and development. Sean also reveals his strategic approach to growing emerging brands, highlighting his current role at Pure Glow, an airbrush tanning franchise. Learn how Sean's investment in Pure Glow aims to revolutionize the tanning industry by offering a health-conscious alternative to traditional UV tanning. Sean also shares insights to where the franchise business model may be heading, over the next 1-3- 5 years.  Sean Bock, this week on Franchise Today

    34 min

  7. SEP 11

    Jenny Young, CEO, Brooklyn Robot Foundry: Empowering Creativity in Young Minds!

    This week we are joined by Jenny Young, founder and CEO of Brooklyn Robot Foundry. Jenny is our Q-3, 2024 rising star of franchising and she shares her inspiring journey from a single unit in NYC, to the establishment of a successful, emerging franchise system, that is thriving!.. Jenny discusses how her background as a mechanical engineer and her passion for empowering children through creative robot-building classes led her to franchising. She delves into the challenges of operating in New York City's expensive commercial real estate market and how she pivoted to a more profitable mobile business model, eventually franchising it in 2022. The episode also highlights the importance of company values, the role of diversity in business, and the unique "Frandowment" competition that helped Brooklyn Robot Foundry find its second franchise owner. Jenny offers valuable insights for emerging franchisors, emphasizing the need for strong support systems and the significance of maintaining brand integrity. Join us to learn more about Jenny's innovative approach to franchising and her dedication to fostering creativity and entrepreneurship.

    27 min

  8. AUG 28

    Brian Schnell: Navigating the Path to Responsible Franchising!

    This week on Franchise Today I sit down with Brian Schnell, Partner and Chair of the Franchise Practice at Faegre Drinker, as well as the Chairman of the IFA's Franchise Relations Committee. Brian shares his journey into the world of franchise law, starting from his early days at Gray Plant Moody and his first project with International Dairy Queen in 1987. During this interview, Schnell delves into the intricacies of the franchise industry, discussing the significance of system change, unit-level profitability, and the importance of relationships and culture. Brian offers insights into the evolving landscape of franchising, including the rise of private equity in both franchisors and franchisees, and the need for responsible franchising practices. Join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities within the franchise sector, and gain valuable knowledge from one of the industry's most insightful professionals.

    33 min
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4.4
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

Welcome to Franchise Today as it celebrates its 15th year in 2024. Join host Stan Friedman, President of FRM Solutions every Wednesday at 12 PM ET / 11 AM CT as he provides full disclosure on what’s going on inside franchising today and serves up discussions with weekly guests, who will talk about best practices for scaling their businesses for sustainable growth, through sensible franchising. Franchising remains an unintentional profession. Most people don't go to school to study about how to become involved in franchising. Rather, some life event causes it to find us. Each episode of the podcast begins with a look back at how franchising found my guest of the week. This is followed by a walk through their career up to and including the present day. It could be either a franchisor, franchisee or a supplier, that provides insights into high-level support services or top-quality products to better enable the franchise community. Each podcast will wrap with a look ahead to upcoming industry events, upcoming guests or important dates on the horizon.

Information

  • Creator
    Franchise Today
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2024
  • Episodes
    300
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Stan Friedman (C/O Blogtalkradio)
  • Show Website
    Franchise Today

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